Retrofit – Making the most of what we’ve got

Posted by david.luukas

Feb24

Alumasc's ZinCo Green Roof system and Hydrotech MM6125 Waterproofing in use on the internal courtyard at Ormeau Bakery

Following the unfortunate demise of Interbuild last year, the government’s first Chief Construction Advisor, Paul Morrell, has been speaking at a launch meeting for the new show BEST (Built Environment Solutions and Technologies) which premiers at Birmingham NEC in October.

In his speech, Mr Morrell was keen to tackle the subject of retrofit, reminding us that existing structures consume around 40% of the nation’s energy.

Retrofit requires close co-operation between suppliers and specifiers, and at Alumasc we are more than familiar with the processes involved. We work alongside architects and designers on hundreds of projects every year, to encourage the specification of sustainable products and systems to create healthy, efficient buildings that benefit not only the wider environment, but those living and working inside them.

The recent refurbishment of the beautiful Ormeau Bakery in Belfast into high quality apartments, is the perfect example of how new technologies are being used to improve existing structures. Alumasc’s ZinCo green roof and Hydrotech waterproofing systems created a peaceful haven on the podium roof of the late 19th century building, which will offer recreation access to residents and a rich habitat for local wildlife.